Council refutes ‘profligacy’ accusation for resurfacing Leeds road before it’s dug up

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A row has broken out after Leeds City Council was accused of “profligacy of the highest degree” for resurfacing a road that was due to be dug up by a gas company.

The council has been carrying out improvements to Leeds Road in Bramhope, which is also earmarked for gas main replacements by Northern Gas Networks.

The authority said it had not resurfaced the stretch which is due to be dug up.

But Adel and Wharfedale councillor Barry Anderson said work should have been delayed until the utility works were completed.

He said: “Frankly it’s ridiculous that the council are spending money on resurfacing Leeds Road in Bramhope when they know that Northern Gas are about to do some work. In these days when we have to be especially mindful of how money is being spent, this is profligacy of the highest degree.”

The council dismissed the criticism. A spokesman said: “The process being used is quick, environmentally friendly and keeps roads in good condition for longer.

“We have been working with Northern Gas Networks on their requirement to carry out their essential repairs and have subsequently stopped our work before where they need to dig. None of the new surface will be dug up and the local councillor has been made aware of this.”